LA County moves to limit helicopter noise

(From the AP) Los Angeles County wants to limit noise from low-flying tour and news helicopters. City News Service reports county supervisors voted Tuesday to send a letter supporting federal legislation that would set minimum altitudes and restrict flight paths. The bill is sponsored by Rep. Howard Berman, a Democrat from Van Nuys.

The legislation directs the Federal Aviation Administration to create restrictions within a year.

The Professional Helicopters Pilots Association says such restrictions could create air traffic congestion and conflicts.

Residents of the San Fernando Valley and the Santa Monica Mountains have complained that their neighborhoods have been overrun with loud, hovering helicopters.